One-Pan Creamy Ham & Pea Pasta
If you’re staring at some leftover ham in the fridge and wondering what to do with it, this One-Pan Creamy Ham & Pea Pasta is about to become your new go-to. It’s rich, creamy, cozy, and made in just one pan! A true weeknight winner!
This easy dinner recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand and turns them into a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that everyone will love. Plus, the pasta cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all that flavor from the ham, garlic, and parmesan.
Have more ham to use? Try Ham and Croissant Breakfast Casserole or Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup.
Whether you’re using up Easter ham or just need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is a guaranteed win.
And if you need a no-fail ham recipe try my Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham, Crock Pot Orange Glazed Ham, or Copycat Honey Baked Ham.
Why You’ll Love It
- One pan = easy cleanup
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Perfect way to use leftover ham
- Creamy, cheesy, and super comforting
- Family-friendly and picky eater approved
What You’ll Need
Find the full, printable recipe with exact measurements at the bottom of this post. Read on for more details and tips! On the recipe card below, click “print recipe” and from there you can print out the page or screenshot it to save to your phone’s photo album.
Pin this recipe to save to Pinterest so you can make it later! You can Pin It from the recipe card below. Just click the “Pin Recipe” button. If you’d like to follow me on Pinterest , my page is Steph Gigliotti.
I’ve put all the ingredients and supplies you’ll need to make this Ham & Pea Pasta into a grocery list for you to add to your next Walmart order. Grab the full Shopping List here.
Ingredients
- Large Skillet– I love my braiser- I use this one
- 12 oz pasta (short cut, I’m using rigatoni)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced (I’m using my leftover Apricot Glazed Ham and the subtle sweetness is SO GOOD in this dish!)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk (or half & half)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, Optional: red pepper flakes, parsley
How To Make It
Step 1: In a large deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
Step 2: Pour in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Stir, then add uncooked pasta.
Step 3: Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes. Stir occasionally until pasta is tender.
Step 4: Stir in ham and peas. Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Add parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until creamy and combined.
Step 6: Let sit for a few minutes to thicken, then serve.
Did you enjoy this recipe? Take a picture and tag me @StephGigliotti on social media and #StephRealLife. I would absolutely love to see your finished dish! ⭐ Please leave a 5-star rating in the recipe card below and/or a review in the comment section. 📌Save this recipe to make later and share with a friend!
Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta
- Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking
- Add a splash of milk if it gets too thick
- Let it rest before serving—it thickens as it sits
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce
Variations & Substitutions
- Swap ham for turkey or rotisserie chicken
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies
- Stir in cream cheese for extra richness
- Top with mozzarella and broil for a baked pasta feel
FAQ’s
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Just keep an eye on cook time—thicker pasta may need a few extra minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it will thicken in the fridge. Add a splash of milk when reheating.
Can I freeze it?
Cream-based sauces can separate, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Best Substitutes for Peas
Broccoli (top pick!)
- Chop into small florets
- Add during the last 5–7 minutes of cooking
- Gives a nice texture and holds up well in the creamy sauce
Spinach
- Stir in at the very end
- Wilts in 1–2 minutes
- Adds color and keeps it light
Mushrooms
- Sauté with the garlic at the beginning
- Adds a rich, savory flavor (especially good with ham!)
Corn
- Sweet like peas, so it’s the closest swap flavor-wise
- Add frozen corn at the same time you would peas
Bell Peppers
- Dice small and sauté with onion/garlic
- Adds a little sweetness and color
Zucchini
- Dice and add during the last 5 minutes
- Soft, mild, and blends right in
More Delicious Pasta Dinners
- One Pan Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
- Baked Cheeseburger Pasta
- Sloppy Joe Pasta
- Creamy Lemon Pasta
- Chicken Bruschetta Pasta
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One-Pan Creamy Ham & Pea Pasta
Video
Equipment
Ingredients
Method
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in broth, milk, and cream. Add uncooked pasta. Push the pasta under the liquid.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in ham and peas. Cover and continue to cook 2–3 minutes to cook the peas and warm the ham.
- Add parmesan and seasonings. Stir until the cheese is melted and creamy.
- Let rest a few minutes before serving to thicken.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh cracked pepper, and parsley and enjoy!
